Multi-Beam X-Ray Source Multiblock for 4D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging systems for interventional procedures face challenges with detector size requirements and cross-scatter issues, particularly in 3D scans where access to the patient is restricted due to bulky equipment.
Innovation Solution
A multi-beam X-ray system with a 'multiblock' configuration of X-ray sources positioned below the patient table, employing a hybrid switching scheme for simultaneous and sequential activation of groups of sources to achieve fast switching in one dimension and simultaneous exposure in another, allowing for multiple angular views while minimizing detector size and cross-scatter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 2-dimensional array of sources simultaneously irradiates a large detector, then multiple angular views can be acquired, but the detector size becomes problematic and cross-scatter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the radiation sources into multiple groups (first group and second group) that can be activated sequentially. Each group irradiates different sub-areas of the detector, allowing multiple angular views to be acquired over time rather than simultaneously. This temporal segmentation replaces the need for a large detector that would be required for simultaneous multi-angle imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching between different groups of radiation sources. The first group activates and irradiates the detector, then switches to the second group which irradiates different sub-areas. This periodic activation pattern enables acquisition of multiple projection angles through time-multiplexed imaging, reducing the required detector area compared to simultaneous multi-beam exposure.
2Reliability
If a C-arm X-ray system is used for interventional procedures, then imaging is available, but the device is bulky and requires significant space next to the patient and table
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from the conventional C-arm configuration (where the source is above the patient) to a multiblock configuration with sources positioned below the patient table. This dimensional repositioning allows the radiation sources to be arranged in a compact array underneath the table, significantly reducing the space required next to the patient and table while maintaining imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging function is segmented into multiple independent radiation source groups positioned in a compact multiblock array below the table. Each group can be activated independently to provide different projection angles, replacing the need for a large, space-consuming C-arm structure that moves a single source around the patient.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of angular views is enlarged by fast switching, then projection angles are increased, but cross-scatter and detector size may still be problematic
Solution Approach 1:
Each group of radiation sources is configured to irradiate specific sub-areas of the detector, creating localized exposure patterns. The first group targets certain sub-areas while the second group targets different sub-areas. This local quality approach ensures that radiation beams from different sources do not overlap on the detector, minimizing cross-scatter while still acquiring multiple projection angles through sequential activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial activation of the source array, where only one group of sources is active at a time rather than all sources simultaneously. This partial action approach reduces the total radiation burden and minimizes cross-scatter by ensuring that at any given moment, only a subset of sources is contributing to the image acquisition, while still achieving comprehensive angular coverage through the switching sequence.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient acquisition of images with different projection angles, generating 3D images without moving the multiblock, and providing high-quality imaging capabilities, including spectral decomposition and fast frame processing, suitable for minimally invasive cardiac procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of radiation sources, and a radiation detector, wherein each of the radiation sources is arranged so as to emit radiation onto a sub-area of the detector
Data Source
AI summary
An interventional X-ray system is proposed, the system including a multi X-ray source unit positioned below a patient table. This ‘multiblock’ may comprise several x-ray sources with focal spot positions distributed along the x-y (table) plane. The x-ray sources are operable in a switching scheme in which certain x-ray sources may be activated in parallel and also sequential switching between such groups is intended. The switching may be carried out so that several images with different projection angles can be acquired in parallel. In other words, an optimal multi-beam X-ray exposure is suggested, wherein fast switching in one dimension and simultaneous exposure in the 2nd dimension is applied.